Car accident southwest of Houston leaves 14 dead

On behalf of B. L. Jensen, L.P. posted in Car Accidents on Friday, August 3, 2012.

Many of our readers may have heard about the auto accident that occurred on July 22about a three hour drive southwest of Houston near Goliad. This fatal car accident is drawing national news coverage because the circumstances are somewhat peculiar and the amount of catastrophic injuries and deaths was extremely high for a one car crash.

Authorities have stated that just one truck, a 2000 Ford pickup, was involved in this car accident that left 14 people dead and nine injured. The truck was extremely overloaded with passengers, many riding in the bed of the pickup. Those riding in the back were among the dead, as many were tossed from the truck when the accident occurred. An investigation and possible crash reconstruction will be forthcoming to determine the exact cause of the accident, but some suspect that a tire blowout was the main cause.

Beyond the death toll and all of the serious injuries involved, the case is catching the nation's attention because authorities have stated that most of the passengers appear to be undocumented immigrants. An investigation into the identity of all of the passengers has begun, with officials requesting the help of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, as well as the Mexican and Honduran consulates, to carry out the process.

No matter what the cause of the accident, or the nationality of these car accident victims, the families of those who died and were injured will most likely be able to bring a civil suit against whoever was ultimately responsible for this tragic accident. In a wrongful death case, compensation can be recovered for medical expenses, lost wages and pain and suffering. For example, if a driver fails to properly maintain the vehicle, including its tires, that person could face liability in the event of an accident.

This case will continue to draw national media coverage, but for the victims and their families, the most important part will be to try to heal and continue on after this whole ordeal.

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